Back in the day

An ancient Germanic tribe that originated in North Jutland, the Vandals began a decades-long migration in the early 5th century. The violent path they cut through Europe made their name synonymous with senseless destruction. Crossing the Rhine in 406 CE, they invaded their first stop, Gaul. The Roman-allied Franks refused to allow them to settle there, so the Vandals devastated the region and kept moving. By the time they sacked Rome in 455 CE, they had established a kingdom of their own—where?

Feature

Found on Jeju Island off the southern tip of South Korea, dol hareubang statues are associated with fertility and protection from demons. Their distinctive features include mushroom-shaped hats and large, bulging eyes. Though their origin is uncertain, the large stone statues are today one of the most widely recognized symbols of the island, and replicas of them are sold as souvenirs to visitors of the popular honeymoon destination. What does the name dol hareubang mean?

Born on a day like today

One of the premier artists of the modern period, Matisse left his law career after taking up painting during an illness in 1890. He explored Impressionism but instead began to use vivid primary color as a structural element. He became a leader of the short-lived Fauvist movement, and by 1909, he had achieved worldwide fame. After 1939, he became increasingly active as a graphic artist. His contribution to 20th-century art is inestimable. Which of his paintings was burned in effigy in 1913?